Common yarrow (Achillea Millefolium) is a perennial herb native to Europe and now found throughout much of the world. For centuries, it has been valued as a natural remedy for wounds, digestive issues, fevers, and menstrual discomfort. Known for its versatility, yarrow remains one of the most respected herbs in traditional medicine.

How to Identify Achillea Millefolium

Yarrow is a hardy perennial that grows between 30–70 cm tall. It features feathery, gray-green leaves and clusters of small white or pale pink flowers with yellow centers. The flower heads form flat, umbrella-like clusters that bloom from late June to September in the Northern Hemisphere.

You can find yarrow growing abundantly in meadows, grasslands, forest edges, and along roadsides. It prefers sunny, well-drained areas and thrives even in poor soil conditions. In many gardens, yarrow may already be growing unnoticed because it’s often trimmed before flowering.

The name Achillea originates from the Greek hero Achilles, who was said to use yarrow to treat the wounds of his soldiers during the Trojan War. The word Millefolium translates to “a thousand leaves,” referring to its finely divided foliage.

Medicinal Benefits of Yarrow

Yarrow possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and hemostatic properties, making it highly effective for treating wounds and promoting healing. It can be applied topically or taken orally as a tea, tincture, or infusion.

1. Stops Bleeding and Speeds Up Wound Healing

Yarrow naturally promotes blood clotting and helps disinfect wounds. To stop bleeding, crush the leaves and flowers into a poultice and apply directly to the cut, or dab the area with yarrow-infused water (5–7 g per 100 ml of water).

2. Relieves Hemorrhoid Symptoms

Yarrow-infused oil can be gently applied to the affected area to reduce swelling and discomfort.

3. Eases Menstrual Cramps and Regulates Flow

Yarrow tea soothes cramps, especially when combined with a few leaves of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis). Fresh yarrow juice (3 teaspoons per day) can help regulate menstrual flow and support uterine health.

4. Supports Digestive Health

Yarrow helps heal gastric irritation, normalizes stomach acid levels, and alleviates colitis thanks to its antispasmodic properties. It also stimulates appetite and promotes smoother digestion.

5. Improves Circulation and Varicose Veins

When applied as a liniment, yarrow enhances blood circulation and may help reduce the appearance of varicose veins.

6. Soothes Skin and Reduces Age Spots

In cosmetics, yarrow has mild anti-aging effects. Applying yarrow tincture twice a day can help fade brown spots and promote clearer skin.

Active Compounds in Achillea Millefolium

Yarrow’s powerful healing effects come from a rich profile of natural compounds, including:

• Volatile oils (containing azulene and camphor)
• Flavonoids (such as apigenin and rutin)
• Tannins (with antiseptic properties)
• Sesquiterpene lactones (natural coagulants)
• Alkaloids (notably achilleine, which accelerates coagulation)
• Salicylic acid, bitters, sterols, and asparagin

Together, these compounds make yarrow an excellent herb for wound care, pain relief, and internal healing.

How to Use Yarrow at Home

Yarrow is easy to find, and there are many ways to incorporate it into your natural remedy collection — from oils and teas to tinctures and ointments.

Yarrow Herbal Oil

Ingredients:

• 200 g dried yarrow flowers and leaves
• 350 ml almond oil (or another carrier oil)

Instructions:
Place the herbs in a glass jar, cover with oil, and leave in direct sunlight for one week, shaking daily. Then move the jar to a dark place for another 30 days. Strain through sterile gauze and store in a clean jar.

Yarrow Herbal Tea

Use 12 g of dried flowers per 250 ml cup of boiling water. Let steep for 10–15 minutes, strain, and drink 1–2 cups daily to support digestion and reduce inflammation.

Yarrow Tincture

Ingredients:

• 50 g dried flowers
• 1 liter alcohol (50% dilution with water)

Let the flowers soak for 2 weeks, then strain. Take 30–40 drops in water, three times daily.

Yarrow Digestive Liqueur

Ingredients:

• 50 g dried yarrow flowers
• 800 ml alcohol (50% dilution)
• 200 g sugar

Soak the flowers for 2 weeks, then strain and mix in the sugar. Take 1–2 teaspoons after meals to aid digestion.

Yarrow Ointment

Mix 15 g fresh ground yarrow with 90 g shea butter. Melt in a double boiler, rest for 24 hours, then melt and strain again.
Apply to the affected area three times a day. Store in the refrigerator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Achillea Millefolium edible?
Yes. The young leaves can be harvested in early spring and used in salads or soups. They have a slightly bitter, aromatic flavor.

Where does yarrow grow?
It thrives in sunny meadows, along roadsides, and in sub-alpine regions across Europe, Asia, North and South America, Australia, and Africa.

What colors are yarrow flowers?
Wild yarrow flowers are typically white or pale pink, while cultivated varieties can range from yellow to red and purple.

Can yarrow cause allergic reactions?
Some people may experience mild skin irritation or rashes when handling yarrow due to compounds like achilleine and tannins.

How do you dry yarrow flowers?
Bundle several stems together and hang them upside down in a warm, dark, and well-ventilated place.

How do you make yarrow tea?
Steep a teaspoon of dried or fresh yarrow leaves and flowers in boiling water for 10 minutes. Drink between meals to support digestion.